Scenic Drives

Three iconic road trips through forest, mountains and valley views

Marysville is one of Victoria’s most popular destinations for scenic drives, located just 90 minutes from Melbourne at the gateway to the Yarra Valley and the ranges. Whether you are planning a road trip, a motorbike ride or a day of exploring by car, the region offers some of the most memorable drives in the state.

Black Spur Drive (28 km | approx. 30 minutes) connects Healesville to Narbethong along the Maroondah Highway. Famous for its towering mountain ash trees, fern lined gullies and winding bends, it is often considered one of the most beautiful drives in Victoria.

Reefton Spur Drive (19 km | approx. 20 minutes) links Warburton and Marysville. Known for its flowing curves and elevated views across the Upper Yarra catchment, it is a favourite for drivers and motorbike enthusiasts seeking a more technical and engaging route.

Lake Mountain Drive (21 km | approx. 25 minutes) climbs steadily from Marysville toward the alpine resort. In winter, it leads to snow play and seasonal activities, while in warmer months it offers cooler temperatures, lookouts and forest scenery.

Together, these routes showcase the diversity of the Yarra Valley and High Country landscapes, making Marysville an ideal base for visitors exploring the region by road.

For the best experience, plan one drive per day, allow time for stops along the way, and start early on weekends or during school holidays.

Image credit: Visit Victoria

Stay Close to the Journey

Comfortable accommodation between day trips

Peppers Marysville offers contemporary accommodation designed for relaxation after a day on the road. Choose from Superior Rooms with king or twin bedding, or upgrade to a One Bedroom Balcony Suite for additional space and views across the surrounding landscape.

Located within easy reach of the Yarra Valley, Lake Mountain and the surrounding ranges, the hotel provides a convenient base for scenic drives while offering a quiet setting to unwind each evening.

Continue Exploring

More places to explore across the Yarra Valley and surrounding ranges

Boat O’Craigo Winery Tour

Located in Healesville in the Yarra Valley, Boat O’Craigo is a family-owned winery known for its elegant cool-climate wines and sweeping vineyard views. Just un…

50 minute drive from the hotel

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Bruno’s Art & Sculpture Garden

Tucked within the lush rainforest of Marysville, Bruno’s Art & Sculpture Garden is one of the region’s most distinctive and heartfelt attractions. Created b…

11 minute walk from the hotel

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Buxton Trout and Salmon Farm

Just a short drive from Marysville, Buxton Trout & Salmon Farm offers a relaxed and hands-on fishing experience for visitors of all ages. Set beside the Ste…

11 minute drive from the hotel

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Cathedral Range State Park

Just a short drive from Peppers Marysville, Cathedral Range State Park delivers some of the most dramatic scenery and rewarding walks in regional Victoria. Defi…

35 minute drive from the hotel

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Cathedral Range State Park

Rugged ridgelines, panoramic views and unforgettable High Country hikes

Just a short drive from Peppers Marysville, Cathedral Range State Park delivers some of the most dramatic scenery and rewarding walks in regional Victoria. Defined by jagged ridgelines and sweeping views, the park offers everything from gentle nature trails to demanding summit climbs, making it a standout destination in Victoria’s High Country.

Walks for every level

If you’re looking for an easy introduction, the Friends Nature Trail and Little River Walk provide relaxed options through open forest and tranquil bushland. These shorter routes are ideal for families or those wanting a slower-paced experience immersed in nature.

For experienced walkers, the Razorback Trail and the Northern or Southern Circuits offer a more challenging adventure. Expect steep ascents, rocky scrambles and sweeping views across the Cathedral Range and surrounding valleys. These trails are best suited to confident hikers prepared for uneven terrain and longer distances.

Overnight hikes and camping

Cathedral Range State Park is also well suited to overnight stays. Camp at Cooks Mill among native wildlife, or hike into The Farmyard campground for a quieter, more remote experience under the stars. Along the way, you may encounter kangaroos, lyrebirds and impressive Mountain Ash trees near Sugarloaf Saddle, some reaching close to 90 metres in height.

Rock climbing and alpine scenery

Rock climbers are drawn to the park for its granite outcrops and varied climbing routes. Beginners can practise bouldering at The Boulders, while more experienced climbers may tackle North Jawbone or Sugarloaf Saddle. The combination of dramatic landscape and accessible routes makes it one of the more distinctive outdoor experiences near Marysville.

Cathedral Range State Park is approximately 35 minutes from Peppers Marysville, making it an easy and rewarding day trip during your stay in the Yarra Valley and High Country.

Image credit: Visit Victoria

Fishing Spots Around Marysville

Marysville and its surrounding valleys are home to some of the most scenic freshwater fishing in regional Victoria. From easy-access riverbanks perfect for a re…

15 minute drive from the hotel

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Fishing Spots Around Marysville

Rivers, trout and quiet stretches just minutes from Peppers Marysville

Marysville and its surrounding valleys are home to some of the most scenic freshwater fishing in regional Victoria. From easy-access riverbanks perfect for a relaxed afternoon to more secluded stretches for experienced anglers, the Steavenson and Acheron Rivers offer year-round opportunities to cast a line in peaceful alpine surrounds.

All locations below are within easy driving distance of Peppers Marysville, making it simple to plan a half-day outing or a full day by the water before returning to the comfort of the hotel.

Steavenson River

Distance from Peppers Marysville: 5–15 minutes by car (depending on access point)

Flowing directly through Marysville and beyond toward Buxton, the Steavenson River is one of the most popular trout fishing waterways in the region.

Vic Oak Picnic Area

Located along the Buxton–Marysville Road, this quiet riverside setting offers easy access to the water, making it ideal for relaxed fishing combined with a picnic stop.

Buxton Recreation Reserve

Positioned just off the Maroondah Highway near Buxton, this reserve provides maintained facilities and convenient river access. It’s a comfortable base for a full day outdoors.

“Meeting of the Waters”

Approximately 15 minutes from Marysville, this scenic confluence is where the Acheron, Steavenson and Little Steavenson Rivers merge. The Acheron cascades into a lively pool before meeting the cooler Steavenson waters, creating a dynamic and productive fishing environment.

There are around 500 metres of accessible river frontage in a park-like setting. While there are no public toilets or bins onsite, facilities are available at the nearby Buxton Recreation Reserve. Visitors are encouraged to take rubbish with them.

Acheron River

Distance from Peppers Marysville: 15–30 minutes by car

Known for its clear waters and strong trout population, the Acheron River offers both easily accessible spots and more secluded sections.

Glendale Lane, Taggerty

A popular access point where the road crosses the river. The small reserve nearby provides a straightforward entry to productive waters.

Little River, Taggerty

Where the Little River merges with the Acheron, anglers can enjoy a quieter setting with good access from the Maroondah Highway. Walking downstream toward the confluence reveals several calm fishing stretches.

Granton & North Creek Road

These local favourites offer riverside access and scenic surrounds. Some access points are limited to areas directly adjacent to the highway, so signage should be observed.

Acheron Way (Upper Acheron & Granton Road)

For those seeking more solitude, Acheron Way runs alongside extended sections of river frontage. These areas provide a more remote and peaceful fishing experience, ideal for anglers looking to escape busier picnic spots.

Planning Your Visit

Many of these fishing locations are shown on the Marysville – Lake Eildon Map, available from the Marysville Visitor Information Centre.

Image credit: Visit Victoria

Four Pillars Gin Distillery

Located in Healesville in the Yarra Valley, around 35 minutes’ drive from Peppers Marysville, Four Pillars Gin Distillery has become one of Australia’s most cel…

35 minute drive from the hotel

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Global Ballooning Australia

Hot air ballooning in the Yarra Valley is one of Victoria’s most memorable experiences, offering a peaceful and panoramic way to see the region at first light. …

50 minute drive from the hotel

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Healesville Sanctuary

Set within natural bushland in the Yarra Valley, Healesville Sanctuary offers an immersive introduction to Australia’s unique wildlife. Open daily from 9am to 5…

35 minute drive from the hotel

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Kinglake National Park

Located along the Great Dividing Range, Kinglake National Park offers a mix of scenic lookouts, bushwalking tracks and mountain biking trails within easy reach …

1 hour & 15 minutes drive from the hotel

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Lake Mountain

Located at the highest point of the Yarra Ranges, Lake Mountain Alpine Resort is a destination that changes beautifully with the seasons. Just 22 kilometres, or…

20 minute drive from the hotel

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Lake Mountain

Snow days, alpine trails and year-round adventure just 20 minutes from Marysville

Located at the highest point of the Yarra Ranges, Lake Mountain Alpine Resort is a destination that changes beautifully with the seasons. Just 22 kilometres, or around a 30-minute scenic drive from Peppers Marysville, it offers an easy and rewarding escape into nature whether you’re visiting in winter or the warmer months.

Winter at Lake Mountain – Snow Season

From June to September, during the declared snow season, Lake Mountain transforms into a relaxed and family-friendly winter playground. It’s one of Victoria’s most accessible snow destinations and is particularly well suited to first-time snow visitors and those looking for a more laid-back alpine experience.

Visitors can enjoy tobogganing and snow play in dedicated areas, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing along groomed alpine trails, and snow-covered walks with sweeping views across the surrounding ranges. A resort entry pass is required during the snow season, along with activity tickets where applicable.

With open snowfields, maintained trails and panoramic winter scenery, Lake Mountain is a favourite for memorable High Country snow days without the need for a long drive.

Spring & summer at Lake Mountain

From November through April, the landscape shifts dramatically. As the snow melts, Lake Mountain reveals wildflowers, open plateaus and crisp mountain air. It becomes a haven for bushwalkers, mountain bikers and those seeking a cooler escape from the city.

Mountain biking is a highlight, including the popular Cascades Trail, with shuttle services operating from Peppers Marysville on select dates. Guests can also explore walking tracks through alpine forest, enjoy picnic areas with BBQ facilities, or simply take in the views and wildlife at a slower pace.

Whether you’re chasing adventure or quiet time in nature, Lake Mountain offers a versatile outdoor experience throughout the year.

A destination for every season

Few places in the Yarra Ranges offer such distinct seasonal experiences. From snow play and alpine vistas in winter to mountain biking, hiking and fresh-air escapes in summer, Lake Mountain remains one of the region’s most dynamic attractions and an effortless day trip from Peppers Marysville. Located just 22 kilometres away, it’s one of the most accessible alpine experiences in the Yarra Ranges, allowing you to move easily between mountain adventure and the comfort of the hotel.

Marysville & District Historical Society

Just a short stroll from Peppers Marysville, the Marysville & District Historical Society offers a thoughtful insight into the stories that shaped this moun…

5 minute walk from the hotel

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Marysville Community Golf & Bowls Club

Set against the backdrop of the Yarra Ranges, the Marysville Community Golf & Bowls Club offers a relaxed yet rewarding sporting experience just minutes fro…

5 minute drive from the hotel

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Rayner’s Orchard

Home to more than 450 fruit varieties, Rayner’s Orchard is a celebrated Yarra Valley destination just over an hour from Melbourne and within easy reach of Peppe…

50 minute drive from the hotel

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Steavenson Falls

Steavenson Falls holds a special place within the Marysville community and sits protected inside a 190 hectare Natural Features and Scenic Reserve. Cascading 84…

15 minute drive from the hotel

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Steavenson Falls

One of Victoria’s highest waterfalls

Steavenson Falls holds a special place within the Marysville community and sits protected inside a 190 hectare Natural Features and Scenic Reserve. Cascading 84 metres, it is one of the tallest waterfalls in Victoria and one of the region’s most photographed natural landmarks.

The Steavenson River begins high on the crest of the Great Dividing Range and flows year round through a forested catchment before plunging dramatically over the granite face. The result is a powerful and constantly changing spectacle shaped by season and rainfall.

An easy, flat walk of 350 metres from the car park leads to the main viewing platform. Suitable for all ages and fitness levels, the return walk of 700 metres typically takes between 15 and 30 minutes. The platform provides uninterrupted views of the falls and is a favourite for photography and quiet observation.

At night, the pathways and waterfall are floodlit between dusk and 11pm, offering a striking alternative perspective beneath the forest canopy.

Trails to explore

Beyond the main viewing platform, several trails connect into the wider Marysville network.

Top of Falls Lookout
One way 800 metres | 15 to 30 minutes
A formed but steep track leading to an elevated perspective above the cascade.

Keppel Lookout Trail
11 kilometres return | Approximately 5.2 kilometres one way | 1.5 to 2 hours
Part of the broader Marysville trail system, offering panoramic views across the Steavenson Valley.

Tree Fern Gully Trail
3.4 kilometres one way | 1 to 1.5 hours
A gentler riverside track suitable for walkers and cyclists, linking the Falls to the township.

The area also includes picnic facilities and interpretive signage sharing insights into the natural and cultural history of the region. Keep watch near the riverbanks, as platypus are occasionally sighted in the quieter sections of the waterway.

A landmark with local history

The falls and river were named in the early 1860s by John Steavenson, Victorian Assistant Commissioner of Roads and Bridges, who established a base in Marysville while overseeing road construction to the Woods Point goldfields. The town itself was named after his wife.

By the late nineteenth century, Steavenson Falls had become a well known tourist attraction, contributing to Marysville’s reputation as a mountain retreat destination.

Image credit: Visit Victoria

TarraWarra Museum of Art

Set on Wurundjeri Country in the Yarra Valley, TarraWarra Museum of Art offers a considered encounter with modern and contemporary Australian art in an extraord…

40 minute drive from the hotel

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Yarra Valley Chocolaterie and Ice-Creamery

Inspired by classic desserts and the rich produce of the Yarra Valley, Yarra Valley Chocolaterie & Ice Creamery is a destination dedicated to handcrafted in…

45 minute drive from the hotel

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Yering Station

Established in 1838, Yering Station is proudly recognised as Victoria’s first vineyard and remains one of the most respected wineries in the Yarra Valley. Fo…

45 minute drive from the hotel

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Scenic Drives

Three iconic road trips through forest, mountains and valley views

Stay Close to the Journey

Comfortable accommodation between day trips

Plan Your Route

Continue Exploring

More places to explore across the Yarra Valley and surrounding ranges

Boat O’Craigo Winery Tour

Premium cool-climate wines with sweeping Yarra Valley views

Bruno’s Art & Sculpture Garden

A whimsical rainforest gallery shaped by resilience and imagination

A story of loss and renewal

Buxton Trout and Salmon Farm

Catch your own fresh fish in the foothills of Cathedral Range

A relaxed day by the river

Fresh, local and sustainable

Cathedral Range State Park

Rugged ridgelines, panoramic views and unforgettable High Country hikes

Walks for every level

Overnight hikes and camping

Rock climbing and alpine scenery

Fishing Spots Around Marysville

Rivers, trout and quiet stretches just minutes from Peppers Marysville

Steavenson River

Vic Oak Picnic Area

Buxton Recreation Reserve

“Meeting of the Waters”

Acheron River

Glendale Lane, Taggerty

Little River, Taggerty

Granton & North Creek Road

Acheron Way (Upper Acheron & Granton Road)

Planning Your Visit

Four Pillars Gin Distillery

Award-winning craft gin experiences in Healesville

Discover the distillery experience

Global Ballooning Australia

Sunrise flights above vineyards, valleys and rolling hills

Float above one of Victoria’s most celebrated regions

Flight options to suit your occasion

Healesville Sanctuary

A bushland haven for Australian wildlife, just 35 minutes from Peppers Marysville

Discover native wildlife up close

Behind-the-scenes and VIP experiences

Kinglake National Park

Panoramic views, forest trails and mountain air just over an hour from Marysville

Walks, waterfalls and wildlife

Trails and outdoor adventure

Lake Mountain

Snow days, alpine trails and year-round adventure just 20 minutes from Marysville

Winter at Lake Mountain – Snow Season

Spring & summer at Lake Mountain

A destination for every season

Marysville & District Historical Society

Discover Marysville’s Stories and Resilience

Stories of resilience and renewal

Marysville Community Golf & Bowls Club

Play among the mountains

Why Visit During Your Stay

Rayner’s Orchard

A harvest of flavour in the Yarra Valley

Taste the seasons

Steavenson Falls

One of Victoria’s highest waterfalls

Trails to explore

A landmark with local history

TarraWarra Museum of Art

A retreat for the imagination

Art, architecture and country

Yarra Valley Chocolaterie and Ice-Creamery

A sweet escape in the Yarra Valley

Crafted with local flavour

Yering Station

Victoria’s first vineyard

A living piece of wine history